Will.i.am joins BBC One’s The Voice panel

Black Eyed Peas frontman Will.i.am is set to join BBC One's The Voice, it has been confirmed. The American musician joins confirmed judge Jessie J, and rumoured judges Tom Jones and Will Young on the UK version of the reality series, which has enjoyed considerable success Stateside with a celebrity panel including Christina Aguilera and Maroon 5's Adam Levine. On his appointment to the role, the Black Eyed Peas star said: "I'm proud to be doing The Voice UK because the UK was the first place I saw success... It's the place I'm the most creative outside of home." BBC One controller Danny Cohen added: "I am thrilled that Will.i.am has signed up to be a coach on The Voice. He is a huge star who will bring a unique creativity to the show." News of the 36-year-old's involvement comes just weeks after his band the Black Eyed Peas announced their plans to take a break from the industry. However, the announcement is unlikely to come as a shock to fans that have long been aware of the singer's British interests, after he collaborated with former X Factor judge Cheryl Cole, as well as managing her affairs in the US. The Voice, which is to be hosted by Holly Willoughby and Radio 1 DJ Reggie Yates, will debut on BBC One in early 2012. BIGGEST STORIES OF 2011SOURCE: DIGITAL SPY